Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead as I prepared to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Embracing the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back on the past academic year, I recognize a path of personal development, challenges, and enjoyment. But what have I discovered, and what is my current status?
One of the earliest and most intimidating challenges was forming friendships. This is typically one of the most daunting parts of starting university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be a significant worry for you. On my first day moving into residence, just days before classes started, I spent the whole day in my room, too afraid to venture out and meet new people. Now, I can affirm that I’ve made some of the best friends here at university and within my course. I’ve found a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what have I discovered? It’s essential to take a risk at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t stress! There will be ample ice-breaking events to facilitate your interaction with others. I also learned that being authentic is crucial. With such a diverse group of people in the course and university, you’re likely to find those with similar interests.
Another hurdle was juggling the workload and the difficulty of the material. There was a clear transition from A-levels, and an even larger jump from the first to the second term. Being in such a competitive environment can impact your self-belief; seeing others study might make you feel inadequate. What helped me was recalling that everyone shares similar experiences. If something is unclear to you, it’s probable that others feel the same way. So, do not hesitate to seek help. This could be the most vital lesson in the first year. Seek support from classmates and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The staff in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the difficulties students face. They show empathy and keep in touch with us throughout the year. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I talked about taking risks – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with faculty, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with staff, and it’s among the best things you can do for your well-being! My primary takeaway is to embrace the support available. You can never have too much assistance!
In conclusion, this year has taught me that feelings of anxiety, both before and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be mitigated by the support options provided by faculty and fellow students. I’ve come to realize that I am never alone and learned how to find enjoyment even amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.